“They’re big, very physical and can play two types of rugby,” said Baldwin on this weekend’s opponents.

“Against Ireland they played the big physical game and when they want to, they can spread it wide.

“South Africa were pretty big and it’s the same thing with the French. I played against Racing Metro with the Ospreys so we know they’re going to be big, physical, and it’s down to us to match them.

“I find it a confident challenge, something you look forward to. From my point of view I want to go out there and be physical and hopefully set a marker. That’s what everyone in the squad wants to do.”

Baldwin’s inclusion was perhaps the biggest surprise of Gatland’s squad announcement, with the New Zealander claiming the 26-year-old Bridgend product deserved a chance to start.

Baldwin has been among the replacements for Wales’ first two Championship games.

“Finding out this morning was a bit of a shock but a welcome one,” he added.

“It’s a massive honour to be selected to start but I’m not taking it for granted. The coaches have made it clear you need to be performing every week to keep the jersey and you can’t rest on your laurels.